In 1955, Fender continued to refine the original Stratocaster design from 1954. Production improved and features such as the tremolo bridged were perfected. Sunburst was still the standard color though some blonde Strats were made in this year. At this point, Fender used Ash for all of its guitar bodies and Alder would not be introduced as the standard wood until the follow year. Also in 1955, the single-ply white plastic pickguard was made standard. 

Years of Production: 1954 - present

Unique to this Year: Single-ply white plastic pickguard is introduced, Ash is still the primary wood, and sunburst the main finish. 

Body Style: Offset solidbody 

Wood Composition: Ash body, Maple neck with Maple fingerboard

Design Elements: Bolt-on neck, dot inlays, 3 single-coil pickups, 3-way pickup selector

Finish Specifications: Most Stratocasters from this era are sunburst, though some blonde examples do exist. 

Notable Players:  Buddy Holly, Bob Dylan, Stevie Ray Vaughn, Jimi Hendrix, Eric Clapton